Connected, Session 5 (Connected in Service): All Excuses Ceasing

This year, Queen Elizabeth II celebrated the 60th anniversary of her coronation.

In 1953, she sent special invitations to the coronation. The invitations were inscribed, “all excuses ceasing.” In other words, there is no RSVP — you’re expected to be there, no excuses.

Today, you are invited and expected to accept an invitation from the King of kings. What excuses are you using for not ministering to others?

“I should take them a meal, but I’m so busy. Someone else will help.” But they do need your help. You’re passing on an opportunity to be a blessing to someone and to be blessed yourself. “A generous person will be enriched, and the one who gives a drink of water will receive water” (Prov. 11:25).

“I should welcome the new family to my neighborhood, but they have little kids. Little kids can get on my nerves.” Your nerves will survive. Take a few minutes and go over there with some cookies for those kids. You are a light that needs to shine in your neighborhood. “Let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven” (Matt. 5:16).

“Why do I always get asked to serve in the nursery? I’ve done my time; it’s someone else’s turn.” There is a need that’s not being met, and you have been asked. Get over it and get in there! “Everyone should look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others” (Phil. 2:4).

“I can’t visit the nursing home. It’s so sad and it smells.” Yes, it can be a sad place, and sometimes it does smell, but one of those residents needs your visit and your kind smile. “Do not lack diligence; be fervent in spirit; serve the Lord” (Rom. 12:11).

“I won’t serve on the committee if he is on it. We had a disagreement not long ago, and it would be uncomfortable to be around him.” Pack up your pride, be the bigger man, and talk to him about it. “When pride comes, disgrace follows, but with humility comes wisdom” (Prov. 11:2).

It’s time to put away excuses and serve others. Ben Franklin wrote, “He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else.”

Susan Childress lives in Atlanta, Ga., with her husband, daughter, and two dachshunds. Most recently, Susan worked at the North American Mission on the communications team. She is guilty of making excuses.

This article originally appeared in the September, 2013 issue of Mature Living. Subscribe